Palmate Newt

Triturus Lissotriton helveticus

About

Newts are amphibians, breeding in ponds during the spring and spending most of the rest of the year feeding on invertebrates in woodland, hedgerows and tussocky grassland. They hibernate underground, amongst tree roots and in old walls. Palmate Newts are more likely to be found in ponds in upland areas and moorlands than other newt species.

How to identify

Our smallest newt, the Palmate Newt is peachy-yellow underneath with few spots on the belly, but none on the throat. In the breeding season males develop black webs on their hind feet and have a thin filament at the end of their tail. Females are difficult to distinguish from female smooth newts.

Where to find it

A very widespread species, found throughout the country except for the Scottish Islands, the Isle of Man the Isles of Scilly, Northern Ireland and most of the Channel Islands. It is very local in the south and east of England

Habitats

When to find it

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

How can people help

Human activity, including the drainage of land for agriculture and the loss of ponds through development, has resulted in the disappearance of many wetlands. This has taken its toll on wetland wildlife like newts. The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with planners, developers and farmers to ensure our wetlands are protected. You can help: encourage Newts and other amphibians into your garden by having a wildlife-friendly pond and leaving piles of logs for hibernating beneath. In partnership with the RHS, The Wildlife Trusts' Wild About Gardens initiative can help you plan your wildlife garden.